Mariners' Raleigh comes off bench to beat Yankees

2025 AL MVP runner-up delivers game-winning hit against reigning MVP Judge's Yankees

Mar. 31, 2026 at 5:52am

In a matchup between the 2025 AL MVP runner-up Cal Raleigh of the Seattle Mariners and the reigning AL MVP Aaron Judge of the New York Yankees, it was Raleigh who came off the bench to deliver the game-winning hit for the Mariners in their series opener.

Why it matters

The Mariners and Yankees are two of the top teams in the American League, and this early-season matchup between their star players could set the tone for the rest of the season. Raleigh's heroics off the bench also showcase his ability to impact the game even when not starting.

The details

With the game tied 3-3 in the bottom of the 9th, Raleigh pinch-hit for the Mariners and delivered a walk-off single to give Seattle the win over Judge and the Yankees. Raleigh had a monster 2025 season, finishing second in MVP voting after hitting 60 home runs, the most ever by a catcher.

  • The game took place on Monday, March 30, 2026 at T-Mobile Park in Seattle.
  • Raleigh's game-winning hit came in the bottom of the 9th inning.

The players

Cal Raleigh

The Seattle Mariners catcher who finished second in AL MVP voting in 2025 after hitting a record 60 home runs.

Aaron Judge

The New York Yankees outfielder and reigning AL MVP who was in the lineup for the Yankees in this game.

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What they’re saying

“While slugger Aaron Judge took batting practice at T-Mobile Park, an advertisement featuring him and Cal Raleigh flashed on the videoboard with a link to buy tickets to the series between the New York Yankees and Seattle Mariners.”

— Associated Press

What’s next

The two teams will continue their series on Tuesday and Wednesday, with the Mariners looking to take the series against the reigning AL champions.

The takeaway

This game showcased the talent and star power of both the Mariners and Yankees, with Raleigh stepping up in a big moment to deliver the win for Seattle against the reigning MVP Judge. It's an early-season matchup that could have major implications for the AL playoff race later in the year.